Jumbo fights on in Brahmaputra waters

By Our Staff Reporter

Guwahati, June 22: The wild elephant, which was swept away by strong currents of the surging Brahmaputra and spotted struggling in midst of the river at Guwahati on Friday, has been sighted at Sildubi hill at Barpeta.

It was seen near Mandia in Barpeta district yesterday, after which it moved 20 km further west to the location where it was seen today.

Since the island is surrounded by the Brahmaputra, it is not feasible to tranquilize and evacuate the elephant which is over 8 feet tall. Heavy vehicles cannot reach the spot.

“The elephant is being monitored round the clock by forest officials and police. The local villagers of Mandia village have been very cooperative and understanding. The elephant seems exhausted after negotiating with strong currents of the Brahmaputra river past 3-4 days, but is healthy,” says Bibhav Talukdar of Aaranyak, who along with a team of forest officials went to see the elephant.

A forest team from North Kamrup Forest Division and Mas tiol Park is constantly monitoring the movement of the elephant along with local police.

“As soon as the elephant is found in suitable location to be tranquilized by expert veteririans, it will be evacuated,” said a forest official.

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